INFORMATION ON PLACES OF INTERESTS

The Embarras River Bridge, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge was originally built in 1890 by the Chicago Bridge Company. The total construction cost was $4,000.

Public Library and Museum: Located at 100 S. Van Buren on the square in Newton. The museum began with the "Schackmann Collection," a collection of almost 200 items that had been started by Henry and Frank Schackmann, two druggists from Newton's early days.

In 1966, the museum was opened to the public and has been accepting interesting articles from Jasper County residents ever since. In 1999 the library and museum was expanded and doubled in size. The library, which now has newspapers, an Internet service and inter-library loans, is open from 10am to 5p.m. Monday thru Friday, and from 10am to 1p.m. on Saturday. The head librarian is Connie Davidson. For more information, call 618-783-8141, fax 783-8149.

Peterson Park is located on the north side of Newton on Route 130. the park offers two covered picnic shelters, two tennis courts, a basketball court, batting cages and several shaded picnic sights. The park is also equipped with a playground, swimming pool, miniature golf course and sand volleyball court.

The Earl Dufrain Park is located next to the Boy Scout Cabin on Liberty Avenue. In addition to the Boy Scout Cabin, the park is equipped with a playground and all new skate board equipment. .

The Jasper County Boys & Girls Park is on Scott Avenue. It is the home of Newton's Babe Ruth softball and baseball diamonds and the busiest place in town during the summer months. The park has five diamonds. It has also hosted several state and regional softball tournament, as well as two national championships.

Senior Citizens Center's purpose is to promote independent living for those over the age of 60 through two Jasper County locations. The largest center is located in Newton at 904 W. Jourdan and is open form 8a.m. to 4p.m. Monday thru Friday and can be reached by calling 618-783-3660. They prepare meals Monday through Friday. Transportation is the largest service provided by the Senior Center. They also provide MEALS ON WHEELS to those who are unable to come to the center. Also available are legal services, blood pressure screening, hearing aid clinic, rules of the road course, home injury control, daily card games, lounge that includes a TV and exercise equipment and assistance in filing applications and claims forms.

Sunrise Youth Center & Community Building has meeting rooms, a kitchen and gymnasium available for rent to private gatherings, business meetings, parties and family reunions. Some of the regular actives include: Pee Wee Basketball league, soccer team, Bingo, teen dances and a Country Western Band every Tuesday night. For more information call 618-783-2201.

Community Information

The Jasper County Chamber of Commerce working for you.

PAM EMMERICH EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

207 1/2 JOURDAN ST. NEWTON, IL 62448 618-783-3399